Aliso sings for the people

Based on the classic novel by Victor Hugo, Aliso Niguel's production of "Les Misérables" characterizes the devastation of the French Revolution with a provoking story of love, hope, and sacrifice in the face of war, poverty, and injustice.

The ensemble also shines in "Lovely Ladies" as synchronized seductive poses, excessive makeup (Makeup Crew- Sarnaz Ashouri, Ivana Salas and Sara Williams), and scarlet accents capture the contrast between Fantine's youthful energy and the decay at the docks. Their eerie tone in the lines "Join your sisters/Make money in your sleep" show just how far Fantine will go for Cosette (Emma Chassey).

The student-constructed set (Vincent Zhang, Baylor Greene, Emily Kunc, Katharine Kabbas, and Kellie Phan) includes a revolving platform that allows for fluid and direct scene changes, such as the shift from a dramatic cart crash to Fantine's deathbed (Taylor McCann) that switches without down time. In addition, a bridge overhead with staircases on either side create additional levels that provide opportunities for complex staging, as in "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables," where Marius (Tyler Hall) weeps for those lost in battle downstage as dim figures of the past appear ominously overhead.

Portraying eccentric and menacing Thenardiers, Jacob Buck and Briana Gelfer play well off of one another in the lively "Master of The House," while stealing this and that from their customers. Buck's clowning and Gelfer's attitude provide comedic relief as they fake cry to procure sympathy while conning Jean Valjean.

In the sewers, they meet again under dim green lights with dripping sounds (Bakhtawar Memon) and an echoing effect with the microphones that give the scene a realistic and grim feel as Valjean heroically endures the filth to bring Marius to safety.

Despite the devastation of war and misfortune, there is healing and hope as Aliso Niguel portrays this power through a strong ensemble, character work and effects.